A DEPARTMENT store has raised hundreds of pounds for its local charity partner, the Chard Hospital League of Friends.
The Original Factory Shop has provided a Christmas donation of £873.38 to the organisation, its charity partner chosen by store colleagues.
The partnership was announced in April. Since then, colleagues and customers have raised money for the charity through in-store collections.
A donation was also added to the total pot for every carrier bag purchase and swipe of The Original Factory Shop Club Card.
Colleagues have hosted regular in-store events to support the charity.
The Original Factory shop has raised over £67,000 for local charities across its 186 UK stores. The Chard store's donation was the third-highest amount raised.
The Chard Hospital League of Friends provides equipment and facilities that are not available on the NHS for the hospital and patients.
It aims to relieve patients and former patients of the Chard and District Hospital who are sick, convalescent, disabled, handicapped, infirm or in need of financial assistance.
Katie Drew, store manager at The Original Factory Shop in Chard, said: “We are thrilled to have raised £873.38 for Chard Hospital League of Friends, a fantastic charity that supports patients and former patients of the Chard and District Hospital.
“We would like to thank all our colleagues and customers who have donated over the past eight months.”
A spokesperson for the charity said: “Thank you to The Original Factory Shop Chard customers!
“With your help, they have raised a fabulous £873 for us at Chard Hospital League of Friends.
“You have done this by swiping your club cards, scanning your app, buying carrier bags and attending other events run by the store. Thank you!”
The store is now taking bookings for its Christmas Prize Bingo, with proceeds going to the Hospital League of Friends and Chard Defib Group.
The event will be held on Wednesday, December 14 at The Guildhall. Places can be booked by phoning 01460 239482 or messaging the store's Facebook page.
Last year, its customers raised £335.99 for the League of Friends, and colleagues raised a further £850 by selling Christmas cards and hosting a bingo night.
The NHS in Somerset is supported by 14 League of Friends groups that organise fundraisers for building extensions, renovations and voluntary services.
The Original Factory Shop is located on Great Western Road near B&Q.
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